Bolt-Sphere Space Frame Nodes
Bolt-sphere space frame nodes are critical jointing systems engineered for 3D grid and space frame structures. Comprising solid forged steel spheres, high-strength bolt assemblies, sleeves, cone heads/sealing plates, and locking pins. Precision CNC-drilled with multi-angle threaded holes, they enable 100% bolt-on field assembly without any site welding required. Offering clear multi-axial force distribution, superior spatial rigidity, and rapid installation, widely used in stadiums, gas station canopies, industrial coal sheds, airport terminals, and exhibition halls.
Categories: Secondary Structural Systems
Bolt-Sphere Space Frame Nodes
Bolt-sphere space frame nodes are high-precision mechanical joint systems used to connect multi-directional tubular members in 3D grid structures and space frames. Composing a solid forged steel sphere, high-strength bolts, sleeves, cone heads, and locking pins, this node system converts complex spatial forces into pure axial tension and compression, eliminating on-site welding while ensuring high structural integrity.
Forged Steel SpheresManufactured from premium solid forged steel, CNC-machined with multi-angle tapped holes to ensure exact spatial angle accuracy for member convergence.
High-Strength Bolt AssembliesUtilizes Grade 10.9s or 8.8s structural bolts enclosed within sleeves, transferring high axial tensile forces safely into the spherical node.
Multi-Axial Axial Force TransferConverts multi-directional bending and shear forces into pure axial tension or compression, maximizing steel pipe material load efficiency.
100% Weld-Free Field ErectionFactory pre-machined threads and standardized components allow complete bolt-together assembly on site, dramatically shortening construction schedules.
Available Steel Grades & Surface Finish Options
- Spherical Node Material: High-grade 45# carbon steel or 40Cr alloy steel spherical forgings, ultrasonic flaw-tested to prevent internal defects.
- Fastener Specifications: High-strength metric bolts (Grade 10.9s / 8.8s) ranging from M12 to M64; cone heads and sleeves made from Q235B or Q355B steel.
- CNC Machining Precision: Multi-axis CNC drilling and tapping ensures thread pitch, hole depth, and spatial intersection angles meet strict millimeter tolerances.
- Gas Station Canopies & Toll Gates: Lightweight, modular space frame roofs allowing fast installation with minimal traffic disruption.
- Industrial Coal & Bulk Storage Sheds: Large-span curved cylindrical or spherical vaults protecting raw bulk materials from rain and wind.
- Sports Stadiums & Aquatics Centers: Column-free curved roof frameworks capable of carrying heavy lighting and scoreboards.
- Airport Terminals & Exhibition Halls: Modern architectural grid roofs offering expressive geometry and open interior spaces.
- Rapid All-Weather Assembly: Cold bolt-assembly requires no site welding or high-power generators, enabling safe installation even in rainy or remote locations.
- High Spatial Stiffness & Seismic Safety: Interconnected 3D grid networks provide high redundancy, preventing progressive collapse during severe earthquakes.
- Economical Shipping & Logistics: Loose spheres, bolts, and pre-cut pipes pack densely in shipping containers, optimizing freight efficiency.
- Calibrated Torque Wrench Tightening: Ensure high-strength bolts are tightened to specified torque values using calibrated torque wrenches to prevent thread stripping or loose joints.
- Sealing & Anti-Rust Protection: Apply sealing grease or mastic around sleeve pins and bolt hole gaps to prevent rainwater ingress and internal corrosion.
- Sequential Grid Assembly: Follow designed grid erection sequences (from center out or bay by bay) to avoid cumulative dimensional tolerance buildup.
